Natasha is a previous project participant. You can view her first image and story here http://www.4thtrimesterbodiesproject.com/gallery-1/2016/2/25/natasha-sullivan

Madison, WI

Natasha shares -

"It was very difficult to accept my body immediately postpartum. I remember taking my first shower after my first daughter was born. I looked at my stomach, no longer ripe with a baby, but definitely still not quite mine. With breastfeeding, I don't believe it's ever really felt like my body again. As we are nearing weaning, it's definitely becoming more mine. I am in awe that my body produced my two beautiful children and it makes me proud and appreciative of that strength.

My first birth was very difficult. Postpartum was the most difficult part, with some significant pain, depression, anxiety and rage. It made it very difficult to bond with my daughter andwas very different from what I thought it would be. I knew labor would be difficult, but I imagined my postpartum being very blissful - lovingly rocking my child to sleep, snuggling and cooing to my newborn baby. All this in mind, I was very fearful before the birth of my second child. My second, however, was a healing birth. I recovered immediately after the labor. The difference was stark. I got to experience all that I wanted postpartum to be in my last baby.

Every baby is different. Every labor is different. Every postpartum is different. There's no way to plan for the experience you simply have to dive in and take what comes.

This is my second time participating. I love seeing photos of my body and it's capabilities as a mother. I also love being part of a community that celebrates the joys and sorrows of motherhood."